Leighton Baines hopes to lay foundations for succeeding Ashley Cole

Baines is set to deputise for Cole against Moldova and UkraineNick Potts/PA Wire

Leighton Baines hopes that a first competitive start for England against Moldova on Friday will serve as the next step in his bid to succeed Ashley Cole at left back.

The 27-year-old Everton defender has made nine appearances for England, but has never previously started a competitive match, such has been Cole’s hold on the No 3 shirt.

With Cole missing England’s opening World Cup qualifying matches away to Moldova and at home to Ukraine with an ankle injury, Baines is favourite, ahead of Ryan Bertrand, to start at left back. But Baines admits that he might have to be more patient in his bid to be the long-term replacement for Cole, 31, who remains eager to add to his 98 caps.